The relationship between Canada and China can be the envy of the world, Wen Jiabao, the Chinese premier, said yesterday. The Chinese leader, in town for a two-day visit, was dogged by demonstrators gathered on Parliament Hill and outside the hotel where he delivered a luncheon speech.
Wen said the prospects are bright for closer trade and cultural ties between the two countries. The goal, he said, is to double the $8 billion in annual China-Canada trade by 2010.
The longer-term goal is a relationship that would inspire both envy and emulation in other countries, he said his speech to the Canada-China Business Council. He said Canada has resources and know-how; China has labour and a vast market. The two can complement each other.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Earlier, Wen spent time with Prime Minister Jean Chretien, discussing international problems, including Afghanistan.
Chretien described Wen as “a good friend” and said he hopes the relationship between the countries will continue to flourish.
Wen and his officials signed a series of minor agreements on technical co-operation. They also signed contracts for China to buy 1.65 million tonnes of potash and 500,000 tonnes of wheat.
As they signed, two groups of protesters demonstrated outside. One group called for an end to Chinese government crackdowns on the Falun Gong sect. The other demanded that China end its occupation of Tibet.
